The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has announced its intention to declare the 2024 presidential election results even if some constituencies have not submitted their results. This decision has drawn significant attention and sparked discussions among political stakeholders and the public.
The announcement was made by Jean Mensa, the Chairperson of the EC, during a media briefing on December 8, 2024. The statement comes amid growing concerns from political parties, particularly the National Democratic Congress (NDC), as well as civil society groups, about delays in the declaration of election results. The NDC and other stakeholders have argued that the delay creates unnecessary tension and uncertainty among citizens.
Mensa emphasized that the EC's decision to proceed with announcing the presidential results is aimed at ensuring that the public is not kept waiting indefinitely for the final outcome. She stated, “The decision has been taken by the Commission to proceed with those results even if we don’t have certain constituencies as part of the final results.”
Delays and Concerns
The EC's decision to announce partial results stems from logistical and operational challenges that have delayed the collation of votes from some constituencies. Observers have noted that these delays are partly due to technical difficulties and disputes at some collation centers.
The NDC and other political parties have expressed fears that such a move might lead to inaccuracies or perceptions of bias in the results. However, the EC maintains that all necessary precautions are being taken to ensure the integrity of the election results.
Mensa assured the public that the commission’s decision to proceed with the announcement of results is grounded in fairness and transparency. "The Commission has reviewed all available data, and we are confident in the credibility of the results we have received so far," she added.
Political Reactions
The announcement has generated mixed reactions across the political spectrum. The NDC has urged the EC to delay the announcement until results from all constituencies are ready, arguing that proceeding without complete data could undermine the credibility of the elections.
Conversely, the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called for patience and trust in the EC’s processes, asserting that the commission has demonstrated professionalism throughout the electoral period.
Civil society organizations, including election observers, have also weighed in on the matter, urging the EC to prioritize transparency and provide detailed explanations to the public regarding its decision-making process.
Electoral Challenges
Ghana's electoral system has faced significant challenges during the 2024 elections, including isolated incidents of violence, disputes over vote counts, and technical difficulties at collation centers. In the Damongo Constituency, for example, angry youth set fire to the Electoral Commission office over delays in results declaration, causing substantial damage to state property.
Observers have stressed the need for the EC to address these challenges comprehensively to preserve public confidence in the electoral process. They argue that transparency and effective communication are essential to maintaining peace and stability during such a critical period.
Public Call for Patience
The EC has urged Ghanaians to remain calm and patient as it works to finalize the election results. In a related statement, the commission noted that it has been just over 24 hours since polls closed, and the collation of results is a complex process requiring time and accuracy.
The police have also intensified security at collation centers and other critical locations across the country to maintain law and order. Citizens have been advised to avoid spreading unverified information that could fuel tensions or incite violence.
Looking Ahead
The EC's decision to announce presidential results amidst constituency delays highlights the importance of effective electoral management in sustaining Ghana’s democratic integrity. As the nation awaits the final results, political stakeholders and citizens alike are encouraged to focus on unity and peace.
While the move by the EC may be controversial, it underscores the pressing need for timely communication during elections to alleviate public anxiety. As Ghana navigates this critical moment, the commitment of all stakeholders to uphold the rule of law and democratic principles will be paramount in shaping the nation’s future.
The Electoral Commission is expected to provide further updates in the coming hours, ensuring that the public is informed about the progress of the collation process and the steps being taken to address any outstanding issues.
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